Old Market Square
Winnipeg's historic heart, Old Market Square buzzes with festivals, markets, and performances at the iconic Cube.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Festivals and warm weather vibes
Old Market Square
Best Time
Festivals and warm weather vibes
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Winnipeg's historic heart, Old Market Square buzzes with festivals, markets, and performances at the iconic Cube.
"A fantastic and cozy place to spend an afternoon, great for relaxing and people-watching."
🎯 Check Event Schedules
Always check for festivals or markets happening during your visit for the best experience.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of exploring, especially in the Exchange District.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Cube
Center of Old Market Square
A unique, adaptable performance space that hosts concerts, festivals, and markets year-round.
Fringe Festival
Old Market Square and surrounding venues
Experience a vibrant celebration of performing arts with numerous shows and local talent.
International Markets
Old Market Square
Discover global flavors, crafts, and unique goods from vendors at seasonal international markets.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Events
Explore the Exchange District
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Event Schedules
Always check for festivals or markets happening during your visit for the best experience.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of exploring, especially in the Exchange District.
📱 Use Public Transport
The square is centrally located and accessible by bus; avoid parking hassles.
📸 Capture the Architecture
The Exchange District's historic buildings offer great photo opportunities.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Event Schedules
Always check for festivals or markets happening during your visit for the best experience.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of exploring, especially in the Exchange District.
📱 Use Public Transport
The square is centrally located and accessible by bus; avoid parking hassles.
📸 Capture the Architecture
The Exchange District's historic buildings offer great photo opportunities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Old Market Square as a vibrant and central hub in Winnipeg, especially for its lively festivals and events like the Fringe Festival. The historic Exchange District setting and The Cube's versatile performance space are frequently highlighted as major draws. While generally positive, some mention minor issues with water pooling on concrete edges during events.
"This place is amazing. I wish the Fringe festival was here for longer. Over the weeks, I saw so many good performances. A shout out to my personal favorites, "The Sun Runner!" They played a new song that I still can't get out of my head. And "Stellar," the all female band. The local musicians are very talented indeed."
Shay C
"Cool stage. I was there for the free shows of the jazz festival. The festival setup had a nice layout with the permanent stage, there was food trucks off to one side on the streets. The only slightly annoying thing is one side of the open green space has some sort of concrete edge you can sit on, but depending how crowded it gets, it's the only spot to go towards the street and it's a big step. There was water pooling on that concrete part despite no rain in the past day, but that seemed like a common occurrence in the city..."
AJ seguin
"I recently visited Old Market Square in Winnipeg and I was really impressed. The square is located in the heart of the city's Exchange District, which is a historic area that is full of old brick buildings and cobblestone streets. Old Market Square is a great place to relax and people-watch, and there are also a number of restaurants and shops in the area.
The centerpiece of Old Market Square is The Cube, a unique performance space that is made up of a concrete cube enclosed by a flexible metal membrane. The membrane can be opened or closed to create a variety of different spaces, and it is used for a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, festivals, and markets.
In addition to The Cube, Old Market Square also has a number of other amenities, including a playground, a fountain, and a variety of benches and tables. There is also a large mural on one of the walls of the square that depicts the history of the Exchange District.
Overall, I thought Old Market Square was a fantastic and cozy place to spend an afternoon. It is a great place to relax and people-watch, and there are also a number of restaurants and shops in the area. I would definitely recommend Old Market Square to anyone visiting Winnipeg."
Jorge
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Old Market Square is centrally located in Winnipeg's Exchange District. It's easily accessible by public transit, with many bus routes stopping nearby. If driving, be aware that parking can be challenging, especially during events.
Yes, Old Market Square is very walkable from many downtown attractions, including The Forks and the Canadian Museum for Human Rights. It's a great starting point for exploring the city on foot.
Winnipeg has a public bus system, and many downtown areas like Old Market Square are quite walkable. For longer distances, ride-sharing services are available.
There are several paid parking lots and street parking options in the vicinity of Old Market Square, but they can fill up quickly, especially during events.
Yes, Winnipeg has been improving its cycling infrastructure, and there are bike lanes and racks available in the downtown area, making it a bike-friendly destination.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Old Market Square itself is a public space and generally free to enter. However, specific events or festivals held within the square may have their own admission fees or ticket requirements.
As a public square, Old Market Square is accessible at all times. However, individual businesses, vendors, and event venues within or around the square will have their own operating hours.
Many events at The Cube are free, especially during festivals like the Fringe Festival or jazz festivals. However, some ticketed concerts or special performances may require advance purchase.
It's best to check the official City of Winnipeg events calendar or local event listings for the most up-to-date information on upcoming festivals, markets, and performances at Old Market Square.
Yes, tickets for many Fringe Festival shows can be purchased in advance online or at the box office to secure your spot for popular performances.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
The area surrounding Old Market Square, particularly the Exchange District, offers a variety of unique shops, including vintage stores, boutiques, and specialty retailers. +1
There are numerous restaurants, cafes, and food trucks in and around Old Market Square, offering diverse culinary options from local eateries to international cuisine.
Yes, Old Market Square frequently hosts various markets, including international markets and seasonal vendors, offering a range of goods from food to crafts.
The Exchange District boasts a vibrant food scene with popular spots offering everything from casual bites to fine dining. Exploring the area will reveal many local favorites.
Absolutely! The shops in the Exchange District and the vendors at the markets often carry unique, locally-made items and souvenirs that reflect Winnipeg's culture. +1
📸 📸 Photography & Sights
The Cube, the historic Exchange District architecture, and the vibrant murals are excellent photo opportunities. The square itself offers great people-watching shots.
The Cube is a distinctive, multi-functional performance space in Old Market Square, known for its unique design and its role in hosting various events and festivals.
Yes, the Exchange District, including areas around Old Market Square, features impressive murals and public art installations that add to the area's visual appeal.
Old Market Square is located in Winnipeg's historic Exchange District, a National Historic Site known for its early 20th-century architecture and its role in the city's development.
The Cube hosts a wide range of events, including concerts, theatrical performances, festivals, community gatherings, and markets, making it a dynamic focal point.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🛍️ Budget Travelers
Exploring the historic Exchange District on foot is also a free activity that offers plenty of visual interest. 🎨 Art & Culture Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Vibrant Exchange District
Many visitors recommend taking a guided walking tour to truly appreciate the district's rich history and the stories behind its iconic buildings. Beyond its architectural beauty, the Exchange District is a hub of creativity and culture. You'll find a dynamic mix of art galleries, independent boutiques, and unique shops, such as vintage stores and specialty toy shops, tucked away in its historic buildings.
The Cube: A Dynamic Performance Hub
During the summer months, Old Market Square and The Cube come alive with festivals like the renowned Winnipeg Fringe Festival and various music events.
Seasonal Markets and Events
Visitors can discover a wide array of goods, from delicious street food and sweet treats to unique gifts and plants. These markets offer a fantastic opportunity to sample local flavors and find one-of-a-kind items. Beyond the markets, the square is a popular venue for various community celebrations and cultural events. Whether it's a Soca Reggae Festival or a Chinatown Night Market, these gatherings showcase Winnipeg's diverse cultural tapestry.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit